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ChatGPT vs Google: ChatGPT Search is Growing, But Google Still Dominates—Here’s What That Means for SEO

  • Writer: Erik Emanuelsson
    Erik Emanuelsson
  • Mar 19
  • 2 min read

AI search tools like ChatGPT are on the rise, and companies are scrambling to understand what this means for their organic traffic. Should you change your strategy? and invest in optimizing for AI-driven search?


Let’s break it down.


In a previous article, we covered tactics to gain visibility on AI search tools like ChatGPT. But the big question remains: how much of your focus should be on this shift?


Recent studies from Datos and Sparktoro finds that Google continue to grow and while ChatGPT is growing fast its still outpaced by Google.


Key Findings from the research:

  • Google searches are still 376 times bigger than those on ChatGPT.

  • Google saw a 20% increase in searches in 2024.

  • ChatGPT search traffic represents about the same search activity as Pinterest

  • AI search tools like ChatGPT are growing, but they are far from replacing Google.

  • Visibility on AI search tools can be useful, but traditional SEO remains the priority



    Overview of search marketshare. Credit Sparktoro
    Overview of search marketshare. Credit Sparktoro


How Ghat GPT Search Behavior Differs

While Google still dominates, the way people use AI search tools like ChatGPT is different. Instead of searching for websites, many users engage in pre-research conversations and then navigate directly to recommended sources.


This means that for certain industries, AI-driven search can lead to more direct traffic and referral visits rather than traditional organic search.


Businesses in sectors like tech, e-commerce, and professional services may start seeing increased traffic from AI-based recommendations rather than Google search results.


What Does Google Domination Mean for Your Strategy?

Don’t abandon your current SEO efforts. Google is still the leader. Optimizing for AI search can be useful, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of proven SEO tactics. Focus on what works: quality content, strong backlinks, and understanding user intent.


AI search is evolving, but Google-driven traffic isn’t going anywhere. Keep an eye on the trends, but don’t overreact. SEO is far from dead.




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